Merkiz

Merkiz is a term that can refer to a few different things, primarily a type of Hebrew letter and a specific religious practice.

In the context of Hebrew, a merkiz is a special, often decorative, way of writing certain letters. These stylized letters are not part of the standard alphabet but are used in specific religious texts, most notably in Torah scrolls. The specific appearance and placement of a merkiz vary and are subject to strict halachic (Jewish legal) rules. They are intended to add beauty and spiritual significance to the sacred text. Their use is typically found in the more ornate sections of a Torah scroll or other holy writings.

Beyond the textual, merkiz can also refer to a Jewish mourning custom. This practice involves sitting on a low stool or the floor for a period of seven days following the burial of a close relative. This period is known as shiva. The act of sitting low is symbolic of the mourner's humbled state and grief. During this time, visitors come to offer condolences and support to the bereaved family. The merkiz custom is a part of the broader set of traditions and observances surrounding Jewish mourning.